The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren in the 2000s arguably peaked with the introduction of this, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss Speedster. Revealed at the 2009 North American International Auto Show, it was the rarest and most exclusive of all the SLR variants. Just 75 examples were built and made available only to existing SLR owners. Skilled Korean designer Yoon Il-hun was tasked with turning the Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR into this stunning speedster, and the end result is a design which pays homage to the iconic 300SLR that Stirling Moss piloted to overall victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia.
While the standard Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR is a powerful supercar, even in a modern context, it does lean more towards being a luxurious GT than an out-and-out road racer. No such concessions were made for the Stirling Moss Speedster; this is an extremely focused race car for the road and dispenses with even the most basic of luxuries such as a roof and windscreen. Almost every panel is uniquely designed and tailored to this car, and even the vertically pivoting doors are slightly shorter than in other variants. Finished in Antimony Grey Crystal, this European-specification example left the factory in December 2009 and has covered just 8400km (5,250-miles) with its two owners since. It has seen regular, if sparing, use and even competed in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz 1000 Miglia challenge.
Under that curvaceous hood sits the same 651hp, 5.5-litre supercharged AMG V-8 that powers the SLR 722 Edition, yet it is even more effective in this car thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber, which shaves 440 pounds off its curb weight. The opportunity to own a visceral and exciting machine such as this Stirling Moss Speedster does not come around very often and it will be one of the headline cars at the upcoming RM Sotheby’s Villa Erba Auction taking place on 25 May. This mint-condition 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss Speedster will be offered fully serviced and with a number of accessories including goggles and tonneau covers. It is estimated to sell for between €1,850,000 ($2,070,000) and €2,200,000 ($2,460,000).
Images courtesy of RM Sotheby’s
